The 2026 edition of the Lagos International Jazz Festival (LIJF) delivered an unforgettable celebration of music, memory, and cultural legacy as industry icons, jazz enthusiasts, and creatives gathered to honour veteran broadcaster and music historian, Benson Idonije, ahead of his 90th birthday.
Held on May 2 at Bature Brewery, the special edition of Jams & Vibes themed “Prelude to 90” transformed the venue into a living archive of Nigerian music history, celebrating one of the country’s most influential cultural figures.
Widely recognised as the first manager of legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Idonije remains a towering voice in documenting the evolution of Nigerian music. Beyond his role in Afrobeat history, he is also grandfather to Grammy-winning Afro-fusion superstar Damini Ebulouwa Ogulu well known as Burna Boy, reinforcing a legacy that stretches across generations.
The evening featured a carefully curated blend of jazz, Afrobeat, spoken word, and live instrumentation. Headlining the performances was Hifro music proponent Labule and the Agbajoshu Quartet, joined by renowned saxophonist Dotun Bankole, who delivered an immersive musical experience that kept guests captivated.
One of the night’s standout moments came from the seven-year-old Pink Sax Girl, whose confident and dexterous saxophone performance drew admiration from attendees. There was a spoken word performance by ECA and rich African-inspired musical expressions from Elnana-Afrika, while DJs Suns and Cheflon provided nostalgic soundscapes that seamlessly blended memory with rhythm.
Backed by a 13-piece band, Labule delivered an energetic set inspired by the mystique of Lagbaja, sparking curiosity with his signature refrain: “Lagbaja we know, who is Labule?” The atmosphere reached another peak when celebrated Afro-jazz guitarist Kunle Ayo joined the stage at Idonije’s request for an impromptu performance. The spontaneous session soon expanded, with jazz icon Yinka Davies and soulful vocalist Gloria Ibru adding their voices to a rare cross-generational musical moment.
Beyond the performances, heartfelt tributes from longtime colleagues, protégés, school alumni, and admirers painted a portrait of Idonije as more than a broadcaster or music executive, but a mentor, archivist, and quiet architect of Nigeria’s contemporary soundscape.
In his brief but emotional remarks, Idonije reflected on his lifelong passion for broadcasting and paid tribute to Fela Kuti, describing him not only as one of the greatest musicians of all time but also as a dear friend whose legacy remains deeply personal.
Responding on behalf of the family, Ronami Ogulu, granddaughter of Idonije and sister to Burna Boy, expressed appreciation to organisers and well-wishers for honouring the music icon.
For LIJF founder and CEO of Inspiro Productions, Ayoola Sadare, popularly known as Shaddie Bobo, the tribute carried deep personal meaning. Describing Idonije as a mentor and father figure to the festival, Sadare said celebrating the icon at both 80 and now 90 reflects a responsibility to preserve and honour cultural legacy.
